The five characteristics of inflammation are:
- Calor (Heat): When inflammation occurs, blood supply to the
affected area increases, increasing the temperature of the
area.
- Rubor (Redness): Due to the increased blood flow, the area
appears red.
- Tumor (Swelling): When inflammation occurs, the body floods the
area with water, which increases the volume of the organ, thus the
organ appears swollen.
- Dolor (Pain): During inflammation, the cells of the area
release chemicals that stimulate nerve endings to send pain signals
to the brain. This causes the area to be registered as
hurting.
- Loss of Function: The above factors decrease the usefullness
and usability of the particular organ/appendage, which results in
loss of function.